Day 9: Seligman to Grand Canyon

We had an excellent 105 mile ride today. The first 18 miles on Route 66 was the best segment of the trip so far. Cool temperatures, light winds, beautiful scenery, and a few antelope made for a nice ride. We then turned onto I-40 East and traveled about 22 miles to the Williams exit. While I had dreaded the idea of biking on interstate highways, it is really ok. Tire debris on the shoulder is by far the biggest concern. However no flat tires or incidents in our group of about 10 bikers.

Near Williams we had lunch in Kaibab Lake Park and then headed north on Highway 64 for 60 miles to arrive at Grand Canyon National Park. We had a great tailwind for the entire 60 miles and made excellent time.

As we arrived at the Yavapai Lodge parking area we were greeted by the very large elk shown in the photo. Our group then scattered to many different lodges around the park. I am at the Maswik Lodge which is an easy walk to the El Tovar where our group is having dinner tonight. I am heading there in a few minutes to see the sunset over the canyon.

Tomorrow is our first rest day. I plan to get up to see the sunrise, take a walk along the south rim (definitely no descents), watch some golf, and ice some body parts.

Steve